If you are craving a hearty meal that packs a punch of bold flavors and creamy comfort, look no further than this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, spicy Cajun sausage, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all wrapped in a luscious, cheesy sauce with just the right amount of kick. It’s the ultimate cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a key role in delivering the flavors and textures that make this casserole so irresistible. From the smoky Cajun sausage to the creamy blend of cheeses and rich cream, every component works together to elevate the dish.
- Olive Oil: The foundation for sautéing adds a subtle fruitiness and helps develop the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Diced: Tender and lean, this is the hearty protein that soaks up all those wonderful spices.
- Smoked Cajun Sausage, Sliced: Adds a spicy, smoky kick that defines the soul of this casserole.
- Cajun Seasoning: Brings that signature Cajun flavor, balancing heat, herbs, and spices in every bite.
- Yellow Onion, Chopped: Provides sweetness and depth to the sautéed base.
- Red Bell Pepper, Chopped: Adds color and a subtle fruity crunch that brightens the casserole.
- Garlic, Minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that ties the flavors together.
- Penne Pasta: Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and mixing beautifully with the fillings.
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory depth to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the rich, velvety texture that makes this casserole so decadent.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Delivers a hint of tang and gentle heat to complement the sausage.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts smoothly for that gooey, stretchy finish.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a punchy, cheesy bite with a bit of sharpness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped: Offers a fresh, herbal finish and attractive garnish.
How to Make Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your casserole dish to prevent sticking. Cook the penne pasta until it is just shy of al dente based on package instructions, then drain and set it aside. This ensures the pasta won’t overcook during baking and maintains a pleasant bite.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add your diced chicken and season it with half of the Cajun seasoning. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes until it turns beautifully golden and is cooked through. Then, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to keep the flavors intact and avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Brown the Cajun Sausage
In the same skillet, add the sliced Cajun sausage and cook for a couple of minutes until it starts to brown and release its smoky aroma. Remove it from the pan and set aside with the chicken so all the proteins stay juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Sauté Your Veggies
Lower the heat to medium, then toss in the chopped onions and red bell peppers. Sauté these until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic release its inviting aroma without burning.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and the diced tomatoes with green chilies to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This combination melds the spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that embrace the pasta and proteins.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sausage
Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage back to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully so the creamy sauce coats every piece. Taste and season with salt and pepper to ensure the flavor is balanced and vibrant.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Generously top with shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses. Pop it in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles enticingly. For an extra golden, crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps the sauce settle and makes serving easier. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brightens up the rich casserole visually and adds an herbaceous note. For extra flair, a few thinly sliced green onions or a dash of smoked paprika on top can add excitement both in flavor and appearance.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to add freshness and balance the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes. You could also turn leftovers into a casserole-inspired pasta bake by reheating and topping with an extra handful of cheese for a bubbly crust. Presentation with a vibrant serving ladle and rustic bread on the side also invites everyone at the table to dig in happily.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a bit, making for an even tastier meal later on.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by covering it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time to ensure it heats through fully and the cheese melts delightfully.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. To keep the top from drying out, cover with foil during reheating and remove foil in the last few minutes for a fresh melted cheese finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other short pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni would also work wonderfully in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
To tame the heat, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild sausage instead of spicy Cajun sausage. You can also omit the diced tomatoes with green chilies or replace them with regular diced tomatoes for a gentler flavor.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
If you want a lighter dish, you can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce.
What if I don’t have smoked Cajun sausage?
You can substitute with any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different yet delicious smoky flavor. Just adjust the seasoning to taste to maintain the right balance of spice.
How do I make sure the pasta doesn’t get mushy?
Cooking the pasta just shy of al dente and allowing the casserole to rest after baking prevents overcooking. Also, avoid soaking the pasta in the sauce too long before baking to maintain perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a comfort meal that bursts with vibrant flavors and creamy satisfaction, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones on any night of the week. Once you taste those tender chicken pieces mingling with spicy sausage and ooey-gooey cheese, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Loaded Chicken and Cajun Sausage Pasta Casserole combining tender chicken, smoky Cajun sausage, and creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection. This comforting dish features a delicious blend of Cajun spices, vegetables, and tender penne pasta, making it a perfect family-friendly meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Diced
- 12 oz Smoked Cajun Sausage, Sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, Chopped
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper, Chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, Minced
- 10 oz Penne Pasta
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (10 oz)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Cook Pasta: Boil water and cook the penne pasta just shy of al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breasts and season with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook for 4-5 minutes until chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: In the same skillet, add sliced Cajun sausage. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped yellow onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning and the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer to blend flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to evenly coat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly top with shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm for an impressive and comforting meal.
Notes
- Cooking the pasta just shy of al dente prevents it from becoming mushy after baking in the casserole.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level to your preference.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti based on availability.
